by Mary Lake

Created on: December 22, 2008

There are very few children who wouldn't love to receive a pet for Christmas especially a kitten or puppy. But before you bring home a new friend for the family, take a look at the overall picture. Millions of pets are surrendered to Humane Societies around the United States each year, and many die humanely in shelters, from disease, or neglect. This happens because prospective new kitten and puppy owners do not think past the initial moment of arrival. Time, training, finances, responsibility and care are often overlooked but are essential components of pet ownership. Also, you have to think past the cute kitten and puppy stage; eventually your little one will grow up and eventually grow old.

This may sound harsh, but it is reality. The proof is the most visible a few months after the holidays at different Humane Societies and Rescue groups when the already full facilities are taking animals beyond their capacity. In fact many adoption agencies will not allow you to adopt during the holiday they will put a "hold" on the adoption until after the holiday passes to make sure the new owners are adopting a new pet for the right reasons. Two years ago I witnessed this first hand while walking through a local SPCA to choose a dog to adopt. My decision led me to adopt a "Christmas present" puppy who was four months old at the time. She had no training, no socialization, and it was obvious she was neglected and was surrendered by her owner. She was surrendered because she was a bundle of energy that her owner was not prepared for, and could not care for. And the shelter was filled with dogs and cats just like her.

Pet ownership is a huge responsibility that should not be taken lightly, and should never be given as a gift. Before you bring a new kitten or puppy home take the following questions into consideration: Is there time for a new puppy or kitten? Is the money available for vaccinations, routine care, and emergencies? Who is going to care for the new puppy or kitten? Can you afford obedience classes? Are you able to take care of them over the long term? The average life span for a puppy or kitten can be ten to twenty years depending on breed and health owning one is a lifetime commitment.

When you do choose to bring home a new furry addition to the family please choose to adopt from the Humane Society or other Rescue group. There are many wonderful animals, both pure and mixed breed, that can use a loving home for a lifetime commitment of care and love.

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